I’ve lived long enough to avoid uttering the words “I will never . . . ” I’ve also observed that every ten years, both the world and I change enough that each decade of life provides an opportunity to reinvent myself. Such was the case when, in 2016, I retired from a very fulfilling career at L.L.Bean and embarked on an incredible adventure as Maine Audubon’s executive director. I have recently announced that, as I approach a decade at Maine Audubon, I’m embarking on yet another grand adventure: retirement with my incredible wife and best friend, Debbie.
Our board of trustees has just launched a search for Maine Audubon’s next executive director (you can find the job posting on our Careers page). We expect the search to be comprehensive and it could potentially be a six-month process, so I’m not going anywhere yet. Still, I’m taking this opportunity to share my appreciation and admiration for all of you who are members of our community and who propel our mission to protect Maine wildlife and wildlife habitat.
Maine Audubon has changed remarkably over the past nine years. With your support, we’ve more than doubled in size. That growth was not for the sake of unbridled growth, but rather a reflection of the conscious expansion of our programs and impact. Maine wildlife and habitat are remarkable on a global scale and, in the face of development, climate change, and other factors, we’ve doubled down on our efforts to keep it that way. Our “wildlife community” model means that we collaborate and engage with thousands of members, supporters, volunteers, community scientists, partners, and advocates to accomplish our mission. I’ve been told many times that Maine Audubon punches above its weight. That’s because of YOU! That’s the root of our success.
Yes, we’ll have a leadership change, but Maine Audubon’s operating model means that it won’t make a seismic shift in our mission and vigor. We are pleased with our current operations and strategic plan, and hiring a new executive director doesn’t signal an abrupt change in course. Furthermore, one of my core leadership beliefs is that the most important job of an executive director is to attract and develop a comprehensive team of talented people who we let shine and grow. I’ve had the pleasure of joining staff and volunteers counting loons on Rangeley Lake for the Annual Loon Count, admired the persistence and diplomacy of staff navigating the political process in Augusta, and experienced the joy of an educational program with my grandkids—we just recently attended Bug Night at Gilsland Farm in Falmouth with the wonderful camp staff to look at moths and bugs under the night sky.
Outgoing directors are often asked what accomplishments they are most proud of. I’m proud that Maine Audubon is a strong and vibrant organization that retains the vigor of youth, even as it leverages its 182 years of accomplishments. But I am most proud of the community that is Maine Audubon. Our staff, volunteers, members, and program participants impress me every day with their commitment to and enjoyment of our mission. Thank you for being a part of our community. My favorite part of this adventure has been getting to know you and to learn from you. You have been a fountain of positive energy and tangible accomplishments.
